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Best Time to Visit Sepilok for Wildlife & Sightseeing

Marriea Travels Marriea Travels May 22, 2025
15 minutes 13 second read
Illustrated travel calendar- best time to visit sepilok

Introduction

If you’re planning a trip to Sabah, Sepilok is likely at the top of your must-visit list—and for good reason. Nestled in the heart of Borneo’s rainforest, this pocket of biodiversity offers intimate encounters with endangered orangutans, rare sun bears, and hundreds of exotic bird species.

 

But here’s the thing: your timing matters more than you think. Visiting during the wrong season might mean muddy trails, fewer animal sightings, or missing out on the best experiences the jungle has to offer.

 

This blog will help you uncover the best time to visit Sepilok, with detailed insights into weather patterns, seasonal wildlife behavior, and what to expect each month.

 

Whether you're heading to the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, or the Rainforest Discovery Centre, this guide ensures your rainforest adventure is unforgettable—and timed just right.
Illustrated travel calendar- best time to visit sepilok
Your guide to the best time to visit Sepilok—know when to go for the ideal weather, fewer crowds, and unforgettable rainforest experiences.

Sepilok: Why It’s Worth Visiting

Sepilok is a thriving eco-tourism hub nestled in the Bornean rainforest, offering some of the most accessible and ethical wildlife experiences in Sabah.

 

At its heart lies the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, where semi-wild orangutans roam freely and visit feeding platforms throughout the day. Just next door, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre provides a rare chance to see the world’s smallest bear species up close as they climb trees, forage for food, and rehabilitate from past abuse.

 

These two centers alone make Sepilok a must-visit destination—but choosing the best time to visit Sepilok can determine whether your experience is crowded and rushed, or serene and unforgettable.

 

Beyond the animal sanctuaries, Sepilok is also home to the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC), a paradise for birdwatchers, botany enthusiasts, and families seeking immersive jungle experiences. Its canopy walkways, orchid gardens, and night trails showcase the untouched beauty of Borneo’s lowland rainforest.

 

Whether you're hoping to see orangutans during feeding hours, sun bears lounging in hammocks, or hornbills soaring through misty treetops, understanding the best time to visit Sepilok helps you plan around seasonal highlights, weather shifts, and crowd levels. The magic of Sepilok isn’t just in what you see, but when you choose to see it.

March to May: Peak Wildlife Watching Season

If you're searching for the best time to visit Sepilok, look no further than March to May.

 

This stretch marks the beginning of the dry season and brings with it clear skies, manageable humidity, and high wildlife activity. During these months, orangutans often come closer to feeding platforms, birds are active, and forest trails are easier to navigate thanks to drier ground conditions.

 

The months of March, April, and May also offer better lighting conditions for photography, which is why they are particularly popular among nature photographers and content creators.

 

With ideal weather, excellent visibility, and reliable feeding times at the orangutan sanctuary, this is arguably the best time to visit Sepilok for travelers who want the full Borneo rainforest experience without the challenges of rainy-season travel.

 

Expect:
  • Orangutans venturing closer to the viewing areas
  • Great conditions for birdwatching in the early morning
  • Fewer leeches and insects on the trails
An orangutan sitting calmly on the wooden handrail of a raised walkway at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, surrounded by tropical rainforest.
Taking a break—this orangutan finds a perfect perch on the walkway railing at Sepilok, offering visitors a truly up-close rainforest moment.

June to August: Holiday Season with Mixed Weather

The mid-year period from June to August is a time of fluctuating weather and increased visitor numbers, yet it remains one of the best times to visit Sepilok for many travelers.

 

While the occasional short downpour can be expected, mornings and early afternoons often remain dry enough to enjoy jungle walks and feeding sessions. This season coincides with European summer holidays, so you’ll likely meet more fellow travelers on the trails.

 

Due to the influx of visitors, particularly families, it’s wise to plan ahead and arrive early to get good spots during orangutan feeding times. Despite the rising humidity, wildlife sightings remain steady, and the greenery is still lush.

 

If you're someone who doesn’t mind sharing the experience and values social energy, this could still be the best time to visit Sepilok for you.

 

If you’re visiting this season:
  • Book accommodations in advance
  • Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience
  • Explore offbeat spots like the Rainforest Discovery Centre canopy walk
A long steel canopy walkway stretching through the treetops at the Rainforest Discovery Centre in Sepilok, offering panoramic views of the Bornean rainforest.
Walk among the treetops—RDC's canopy walkway offers breathtaking views of Sabah’s rainforest and a chance to spot rare wildlife from above. (Photo by: Andy Loeber)

September to October: Off-Peak With Wildlife Surprises

September and October usher in the shoulder season—often overlooked, but still considered by many to be one of the best times to visit Sepilok if you prefer fewer tourists and a quieter atmosphere.

 

As rainfall begins to increase, the forest becomes more vibrant and alive. Birdwatchers will find this time especially rewarding, with migratory species arriving and hornbills becoming more vocal.

 

Though you may encounter more moisture and occasional muddy paths, these months can offer some of the most authentic rainforest experiences. The wildlife doesn’t stop because of a little rain, and neither should you.

 

If you're seeking serenity, solitude, and a deeper connection with nature, September and October may surprise you as a strong contender for the best time to visit Sepilok.

 

Rainfall increases in September and October, but this transitional season offers unexpected rewards-
  • The rainforest becomes greener and more vibrant
  • Bird migrations peak, especially raptors and hornbills
  • Fewer tourists, offering a more intimate jungle experience
A hornbill captured mid-call while perched on a high tree branch in the Borneo rainforest, its beak open and wings slightly raised.
Echoes of the wild—this hornbill lets out a powerful call, its voice resonating through the treetops of Borneo’s lush rainforest.

November to February: Rainy But Rewarding

While the monsoon season from November through February might scare off some travelers, it’s still a valid contender for the best time to visit Sepilok, especially for those with a love for moody rainforests and quieter trails.

 

The rains breathe new life into the jungle, turning it into a lush, green cathedral filled with mist, sound, and motion. Fewer visitors during this season also means more personal space and a deeper connection with nature.

 

Trails can be slippery, and rain gear is essential, but you’ll find a raw kind of beauty that’s hard to describe unless you’ve seen it. Wildlife doesn’t vanish—it adapts. Morning fog creates mystical photography opportunities, and nocturnal creatures come alive during evening walks.

 

If you're comfortable with getting a little wet and appreciate a more atmospheric jungle vibe, the rainy season might just be your best time to visit Sepilok.

 

Yes, it rains more frequently. But the forest is alive with sound, mist, and movement.
  • Morning walks are filled with fog and the calls of gibbons
  • Rainforest Discovery Centre’s night walks are at their most magical
  • You’ll find better availability and lower prices for lodging

Wildlife Watching Calendar: What to Expect Each Month

January

  • Expect frequent rainfall and lush rainforest scenery.
  • Fewer tourists make for a quiet and immersive visit.

February

  • Rain persists, but wildlife is still active between showers.
  • Good time for budget travelers looking for solitude.

March

  • Dry season begins; wildlife sightings increase.
  • Excellent for orangutan feedings and early birdwatching.

April

  • Ideal weather conditions and high animal activity.
  • One of the best times to visit Sepilok for photography.

May

  • Warm, dry, and wildlife remains highly active.
  • Peak birdwatching opportunities and great trail conditions.

June

  • Mix of sunshine and light showers; orangutans often spotted.
  • Summer holidays begin—plan for moderate crowds.

July

  • Wildlife sightings remain good, but expect more visitors.
  • Popular travel month for families and international tourists.

August

  • Still suitable for wildlife viewing, but busier at key times.
  • Book early for accommodations and tours.

September

  • Rainfall increases slightly; the forest becomes even more vibrant.
  • Excellent time for bird migration and fewer crowds.

October

  • Off-peak travel period with occasional rain.
  • Great for a more personal and tranquil experience.

November

  • Start of the monsoon season; rainforest atmosphere intensifies.
  • Lower prices and magical, misty mornings.

December

  • Rainfall is at its highest, but wildlife remains visible.
  • Year-end travel surge may still bring some visitors.
A cute gibbon with expressive eyes and soft fur hanging playfully from a tree branch in the tropical rainforest of Borneo
With its wide eyes and playful pose, this gibbon steals hearts in the treetops

The Dry vs. Rainy Debate: Which Is Better?

Dry season (March–August) is generally recommended if you want:
  • Easier jungle treks
  • Better photo conditions
  • Higher chance of animal sightings during feedings
Rainy season (November–February) is best for:
  • A dramatic, immersive rainforest vibe
  • Fewer crowds
  • Budget-friendly travel

So what's the verdict on the best time to visit Sepilok? It depends on your travel goals. But for a balanced experience with good weather, moderate crowds, and active wildlife, April or May is a clear winner.

Best Season to Visit Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre & Rainforest Discovery Centre

Planning your visit around the best time to visit Sepilok makes all the difference, especially when your itinerary includes the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, and the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC).

 

These three attractions are all located within walking distance of each other, and each one offers a slightly different experience depending on the season. From March to July, the dry season provides the most reliable conditions. Trails are more accessible, wildlife is active, and visibility is excellent for photography and observation.

 

At the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, fruit scarcity in the wild during dry months means more orangutans tend to show up for feedings. Over at the Sun Bear Centre, you'll notice the bears are more visible, resting and roaming under clearer skies. Meanwhile, the RDC becomes a haven for birdwatchers as endemic and migratory species are easier to spot in the early morning light.

 

If you're wondering when to get the best combination of weather, animal activity, and visitor experience, the dry season, especially April to June, is widely considered the best time to visit Sepilok for all three attractions.
A sun bear sitting on the ground with its paws resting in front, showing its short black fur and distinctive golden chest patch at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.
A quiet moment—this sun bear takes a break from exploring

Weather in Sepilok: Plan Seasonally

Sepilok’s rainforest climate is hot, humid, and tropical year-round, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 27°C to 32°C.
  • Humidity peaks during the rainy season
  • Rain showers are usually short, intense, and mostly in the afternoon
  • Be prepared for muddy trails and slippery walkways in wet months

Quick Sepilok Travel Tips

  • Start early: Wildlife is most active in the morning
  • Visit on weekdays to avoid local crowds
  • Combine your visit with the Kinabatangan River or the Sandakan City Heritage Trail for a deeper Sabah experience
  • Wear neutral colors and avoid strong scents to increase the chances of animal encounters
  • Check seasonal events such as World Orangutan Day (August 19)

Final Thoughts on the Best Time to Visit Sepilok

There’s no doubt about it—timing your visit to Sepilok can elevate your experience from good to extraordinary.

 

No matter if you’re after crisp morning birdwatching at the Rainforest Discovery Centre, peaceful moments with orangutans at the feeding platforms, or watching sun bears climb through sunlit trees, the best time to visit Sepilok depends on your goals and comfort level with the weather. Each season offers something unique—from the lush drama of the monsoon to the picture-perfect calm of dry months.

 

To make your Sepilok adventure even more rewarding, don’t stop here. Head over to our comprehensive travel companion: The Ultimate Sepilok Travel Guide 2025: Orangutans, Bears, & Rainforest Fun.
 
Inside, you'll find insider tips, how to plan your day, what to pack, where to stay, and how to link Sepilok with nearby eco-destinations. It’s everything you need to plan a smart, memorable, and truly wild Borneo getaway.

FAQs: Best Time to Visit Sepilok

Yes, all major attractions are open daily, including the Orangutan Centre and Sun Bear Centre.

Introducing EcoTour Malaysia Sepilok Wildlife Tours

If you're dreaming of meeting orangutans face to face, quietly observing sun bears in their natural habitat, or walking beneath rainforest canopies filled with birdsong, you're not alone.

 

But planning a visit to Sepilok can feel overwhelming, especially with unpredictable weather and limited transport options. That’s why we created our Sepilok wildlife tours- to help you experience the very best of this incredible place, without the stress.

 

Our tours are thoughtfully crafted for travelers who value comfort, sustainability, and meaningful encounters with nature. Whether you're traveling solo, with your family, or with a small group of friends, we’ll take care of the details so you can focus on what matters—connecting with Borneo’s wildlife.

 

If you're not sure where to start, 📩 contact us through our page and let us help you create a Sepilok experience that feels personal, effortless, and unforgettable.
Wildlife & Eco-Tours You Have to Check:
Eco Tours Malaysia
Full Day Sepilok Orangutan, Sun Bear & Sandakan Heritage Tour | Wildlife Experience in Sabah
4.33(3 reviews)
8 - 9 hours
Free Cancellation
from RM662.00
Book now
Full Day Sepilok Orangutan Sun Bear Labuk Bay RDC Tour
Full Day Sepilok Orangutan, Sun Bear, Proboscis Monkey & Rainforest Discovery Tour | Wildlife Experience in Sandakan
4.67(3 reviews)
8 - 9 hours
Free Cancellation
from RM1,125.00
Book now
Half Day Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Tour
Half Day Sepilok Orangutan & Sun Bear Tour | Sandakan Wildlife Experience
4.65(23 reviews)
4-5 hours
Free Cancellation
from Original price was: RM448.00.Current price is: RM403.00.
Book now
5D4N Sandakan Wildlife Heritage Tour
5D4N Ultimate Sandakan Wildlife & Heritage Tour | Orangutans, Turtle Island & River Safari in Sabah
4.75(4 reviews)
5 Days - 4 Nights
Free Cancellation
from Original price was: RM4,455.00.Current price is: RM4,009.50.
Book now

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